YEAR 10 ELECTIVE DESCRIPTIONS

Science Electives:

At Year 10, students gain a greater autonomy over the particular fields of Science they study. All mainstream students must select at least one Science unit in Year 10, but may choose to select more than this. Students electing to take the Vocational pathway enrol in the Applied Science subject, which focuses on practical applications of scientific knowledge. Applied Science is designed to prepare students for progress to the VCE Vocational Major.

In Year 10 Science subjects are refined into fields, with Chemistry and Physics paired, and Biology Psychology paired, more closely reflecting the VCE. Students unsure of their VCE direction are encouraged to choose both Foundation level subjects as this gives them a broad set of options to select from in Year 11. The Foundation level subjects are sufficient to progress into the related VCE subject in Year 11. Extension Physics/Chemistry gives students the opportunity to further progress their knowledge and skills prior to VCE, and is suitable for students planning to complete both subjects at VCE level.

While the extension Physics/Chemistry subject is open to all students with an interest in physical sciences, Enhancement Biology remains a select entry program, requiring a separate application. Entrance into this course, which prepares students for accelerated entry into Units 3&4 Biology in Year 11, is based on overall academic progress, and aptitude in Year 9 Science.

Biology/Psychology Foundation

In foundation Biology students study the transmission of heritable characteristics from one generation to the next involves DNA and genes which leads to the theory of evolution by natural selection explaining the diversity of living things as supported by a range of scientific evidence.

Topics overview:

• Cell Theory and the function of various cells

• Identify the main structure of DNA. Distinguish between DNA, genes, chromosomes, and proteins. Describe the features of the genetic code.

• Describe the different mutations can occur in the genetic code.

• Define evolution and the evidence for evolution. Explain the limitations of the fossil record as evidence for evolution

Psychology is a multifaceted discipline that seeks to describe, explain, understand and predict human behaviour and mental processes. It includes many sub-fields of study that explore and seek to better understand how individuals, groups, communities, and societies think, feel and act. Students study contemporary research, models and theories to understand how knowledge in psychology has developed and how this knowledge continues to change in response to new evidence and discoveries in an effort to solve day-to-day problems and improve psychological wellbeing.

As part of this Science elective, students will gain an insight into some of the topics covered in VCE Psychology and introduced to scientific investigation methodologies, to develop key science skills and to interrogate the links between knowledge, theory, and practice.

Topic overview:

• Nervous System and The Brain

• Memory and Forgetting

• Mental Health

• Famous Social Psychology Experiments